DOE RUN, Mo. – IMCA STARS Mod Lites are new to Friday night race programs this season at small but lightning quick Doe Run Raceway.
The 1/6-mile, high-banked clay oval some 70 miles south of downtown St. Louis opens with the April 2-3 Small Tire Shootout. The IMCA Speedway Motors Weekly Racing point season continues through Sept. 24.
“These cars are fast and the fans love ‘em. They’re like Modifieds on a smaller scale and they put on a great show,” promoter Tommy Harris said. “The drivers are a great bunch. They came to me and asked to sanction. They can run here for national and state points, and have the extra insurance that comes with IMCA membership.”
Built in the mid-1990s, Mod Lites ran their first full season at Doe Run after Harris purchased, then re-opened the track last year.
Berms were taken out and 30 loads of clay added to the racing surface last fall. Final touches on a new concession stand and restroom facilities are being made before the season-opening special.
Night one of the Small Tire Shootout pays $750 to win and $75 to start. The Saturday purse sees $1,500 paid to win and $100 to start.
“We want to do everything we can to help this division grow. The Small Tire Shootout is going to be a big way to start the season,” said Harris.
A top prize of $500 is at stake for the Mod Lites in a program that precedes fireworks on June 25.